Daily habits that are bad for our hair
We all get into bad habits at some point in our lives – and often, we do not even realise that they are having any negative effect.
When it comes to our hair, it is very easy to fall into this trap.
The way we treat our hair can often be the cause of many of the problems associated with it. But just because it is something you have always done; it does not mean that you should keep doing it.
Whether you suffer from breakage, unruliness or faded colour, we look at which aspects of your day to day, hair care routine might just be having a detrimental effect on your crowning glory!
Hair washing
When it comes to hair washing, how much is too much? Or do you worry that you are not washing it enough?
Hairdressers are often asked “is it is bad to wash your hair every day?” and the answer will generally be yes.
Instead of thinking how often you should wash it, consider how often it needs washing.
Is it bad to not wash your hair?
We do not usually wash anything unless it is dirty, and the same rule should apply to your hair.
If your hair is oily and feels unclean to the touch, then it is probably time to get in the shower. Some people will produce enough oil to need daily hair washing, but there are not many.
People with straight hair will often find that they need to wash their hair more frequently than their curly haired friends, as it is more easily coated with sebum.
Afro hair is the type that requires the least washing as it is more susceptible to damage from harsh shampoos.
The dirt that builds up in your hair can come from dust, sweat, pollen and styling products and these will need to be washed out when you know that have been an issue.
Is it bad to wash your hair at night?
You should also think about when you wash your hair.
Hair is more easily damaged when it is wet, so washing your hair at night and going to bed when it is wet will mean it can become tangled and suffer significant breakage (source 1).
Is it bad to wash your hair twice a day?
It is advised not to wash your hair too often, as shampoo can strip your hair of its vital oils, leaving it dry and damaging the skin (source 2).
When you do wash your hair, try concentrating the shampoo on the roots as the ends will be cleaned as the shampoo runs down the length of your hair.
Therefore, washing your hair every day is often excessive and washing it twice a day is unnecessary unless you have got it exceptionally dirty.
Styling techniques
We put our hair through a lot when we style it, and not all of it is good for you.
For example, you might ask is backcombing bad for your hair?
Well, yes, the truth is that backcombing can be bad for your hair, as it goes against the direction of the cuticle cells, leading to damage (source 3).
Certain hair ties are also not your best friend, as those with little stretch or a metal clasp can create fractures in the hair leading to breakage (source 4).
And Ariana Grande might sport that ponytail every time we see her but pulling you hair back too much puts tension on the scalp, which can lead to a form of hair loss.
Heat treatments
We have all used some form of heat-based styling tool at some point.
Sometimes we straighten, sometimes we curl, and most commonly, we blow dry. However, did you know that this heat dries out your hair, causing all kinds of damage?
Obviously, the best advice is to avoid applying heat directly to the hair, but we realise this is not actually always practical!
Therefore, try and keep heat treatments to a minimum and apply a heat protection product to your hair first.
If you are blow drying, consider turning the temperature down a little and make sure that you do not keep the hair dryer in one spot for too long; keep moving it around to avoid intense heat building up in one area.
The best way to look after your hair is slightly different depending on your individual hair type, but there are a number of bad habits that we are all guilty of which can compromise the health of our hair.
Understanding the best way to care for your hair will mean that you find its condition gradually improves and breakage becomes minimised.
Sources:
1 - https://hellogiggles.com/hair/wash-hair-night-scary-news/
3 - https://thebeautybrains.com/2008/02/is-backcombing-bad-for-your-hair/
4 - https://www.nowtolove.co.nz/beauty/hair/8-bad-hair-habits-to-break-44345